Years ago, during a family vacation in Spain, I experienced a moment that quietly but profoundly changed everything. My life was already wonderful—my first son was two years old, and we were enjoying the simple joys of traveling as a family.

One evening, as I walked through the small lobby of our hotel, a painting on the wall caught my eye. It wasn’t just any painting—it stopped me in my tracks. The colors were alive, the brushstrokes pulsing with energy, and it felt as if the artwork was speaking directly to my soul.

That painting wasn’t just beautiful; it awakened something inside me, something I had almost forgotten. It brought back my childhood dream of becoming an artist—a dream I had set aside long before I became a mother.

The Painting That Changed Everything

That moment stayed with me, and recently, after 25 years, I revisited that same hotel. To my surprise, the painting was still there, hanging in the very same spot. It hadn’t lost any of its its magnetic pull or the energy that first inspired me all those years ago.

Standing in front of it again, I felt as if I’d come full circle. I couldn’t resist taking a photo this time, capturing myself next to the painting that had quietly reminded me to step into my destiny all those years ago.

How Art Speaks to Us

Art has a way of reaching us when we least expect it. Sometimes it stirs emotions; other times, it brings clarity. For me, that painting wasn’t just a reminder of my dream—it was a call to action.

When we returned home from that first trip, I couldn’t let go of the feeling it had given me. I went out, bought my first set of oil paints, and began painting. It wasn’t perfect, but each brushstroke felt like rediscovering a part of myself that I thought had been lost.

A View That Symbolized Possibilities

Another memory from that trip is just as vivid: standing on the beach, gazing at the endless sea, with an ancient castle rising in the background. It was one of those moments where you feel the vastness of life and its endless possibilities.

There’s a photo of me standing there, overlooking the horizon. That view, much like the painting, became a symbol of the dreams waiting for me—the ones I had to find the courage to pursue.

Dreams Never Fade

What I’ve learned is this: dreams don’t disappear, even when life feels full or perfect. They wait patiently until we’re ready to embrace them.

For me, the painting in Spain wasn’t just art—it was a message, a reminder that my dream was still alive, quietly waiting for me to notice it again.

5 Lessons From Following My Dream

Here’s what I’ve discovered since that day in Spain, and I hope it inspires you too:

1️⃣ Dreams are patient. Even if they’re set aside for years, they’ll still be there when you’re ready.
2️⃣ Art can awaken us. It has a way of reminding us of who we are or who we’re meant to be.
3️⃣ Start imperfectly. You don’t need to know everything—just take the first step.
4️⃣ Let moments inspire action. Whether it’s art, nature, or a view, let those moments push you forward.
5️⃣ It’s never too late. No matter how much time has passed, your dream is always within reach.

Your Dream is Worth It

The painting that inspired me all those years ago is still just as powerful today. It reminds me of the dream I almost forgot—and of the beauty of stepping into your purpose, no matter where life finds you.

What about you? Has a piece of art, a view, or a memory ever reminded you of a dream you’ve held deep inside? Maybe now is the time to take that first step toward it.

Your dream is waiting. And I promise you—it’s worth it.

With love and inspiration,
Andrea✨

P.S. In this blog, you’ll find two photos that capture these transformative moments: me standing next to the painting that reignited my dream—taken last year during a return to the hotel—and me overlooking the beach with the ancient castle in the background. These moments shaped my journey, and I hope they inspire yours. Share your own story in the comments—I’d love to hear it!

Feel free to visit my website to see how my art has evolved over the years—it’s been an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to share it with you!